News 12 goes behind the scenes at the Jones Beach Theater after Sandy renovations

News 12 goes behind the scenes at the Jones Beach Theater after Sandy renovations


After getting slammed and flooded by Superstorm Sandy, Jones Beach Theater is ready to rock. News 12's Elisa DiStefano and Elizabeth Hashagen went behind the scenes to give you an all access look at the renovations and new spots to hang out.

According to Live Nation's Adam Citron, the entire venue was flooded, everything from the backstage area, the seating area and the concessions stands. "Completely washed through to the parking lots. White caps in the parking lot of Jones Beach," Citron adds.

Citron says though the storm was unfortunate, it did give them the opportunity to improve on the venue and add more fun things. Those items include more concession stands and a 'rain room.'

"The Grid Lounge will be open to the public and it will have furniture and charging stations for your electronic equipment, TVs in case you want to catch the game," Citron says.

Also new this year, almost 3,000 new orchestra seats with padding. And those seats are removable so fans can get an up close experience with their favorite artists. Citron says the removable seats really give the venue a lot of programming opportunities to bring in more talent.

And lastly, the entire backstage area got a complete facelift. The renovation included a complete kitchen, so bands can have some home cooking when they are off the tour bus. Also included in the $20 million renovation was new LED lighting and an upgrade to the electrical grid.

The concert season at Jones Beach Theater kicks off May 31 with the Rascal Flatts.